Being Prepared
Overview
Are you ready for a flood or a flash flood? Here are ways you can prepare for such emergencies:
- Know What to Expect
- Know your area's flood risk; if unsure, you can call the city's planning and zoning department. In Merriam, the phone number is 913.322.5520.
- If it has been raining hard for several hours, or steadily raining for several days, be alert to the possibility of a flood.
- Listen to local radio or TV stations for flood information.
- Reduce Potential Flood Damage
- Raise your furnace, water heater, and electric panel if they are in areas of your home that may be flooded.
- Consult with a professional for further information if this and other damage reduction measures can be taken.
- Floods Can Take Several Hours to Days to Develop
- A flood watch means a flood is possible in your area.
- A flood warning means flooding is already occurring or will occur soon in your area.
- Flash Floods Can Take Only a Few Minutes to a Few Hours to Develop
- A flash flood watch means flash flooding is possible in your area.
- A flash flood warning means a flash flood is occurring or will occur very soon.
- Prepare a Family Disaster Plan
- Check to see if you have insurance that covers flooding. If not, find out how to get flood insurance.
- Keep insurance policies, documents, and other valuables in a safe deposit box.
- Assemble a Disaster Supply Kit Containing
- At least three gallons of water per person
- Battery-powered radio, flashlight, and extra batteries
- Canned food and can opener
- First aid kit and essential medications
- Protective clothing, rainwear, and bedding or sleeping bags.
- Special items for infant, elderly, or disabled family members.
- Written instructions for how to turn off electricity, gas, and water if authorities advise you to do so. Remember, You'll need a professional to turn natural gas service back on
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